The story of Hasthi Sri Lankan Restaurant is one of love, partnership, and a shared dream. It began in the kitchens of Ja-Ela, Sri Lanka, where Chef Daniel Wijekoon first discovered his passion for food, and it grew into a vision nurtured alongside his wife, Vish Wijewardana. Together, they brought this dream to life, creating a place where flavors tell stories, traditions come alive, and people come together over unforgettable meals. For Daniel, food has always been deeply personal. Growing up in Sri Lanka, his earliest memories were shaped by the warmth of his family’s kitchen. The air was filled with the fragrant aroma of cinnamon, curry leaves, and roasted spices, while his mother and grandmother taught him the magic of transforming simple, fresh ingredients into dishes that celebrated family, culture, and life’s most meaningful moments. Food, for Daniel, was never just about nourishment; it was about connection and joy.
As his career took him to the UK and Australia, Daniel honed his skills and earned accolades like Two Hats in the Good Food Guide (2016-2017) and recognition as a Chef of the Year Grand Finalist (2017). Yet, amidst his success, he longed for something more—a way to reconnect with his roots and share the bold, vibrant flavors of Sri Lankan cuisine with the world. Vish has been at the heart of this vision from the very beginning. Her passion for food, curiosity, and deep desire to explore the traditions of Sri Lankan cuisine have been a driving force behind Hasthi. Inspired by family recipes and her love of cooking, she immersed herself in learning the techniques and perfecting dishes that tell a story. For her, cooking became a way to bring people together, share joy, and create lasting memories around the table.
Their journey together began in 2004, the year they were married, and their bond has only grown stronger ever since. United by shared values and dreams, they took the leap into entrepreneurship to bring Hasthi to life. More than just a restaurant, Hasthi represents their partnership, their love for food, and their belief in the power of meals to foster connection.
The name Hasthi , meaning “tusker” or “elephant with protruding teeth” in Sinhala, symbolizes strength, tradition, and the timeless beauty of Sri Lanka—values that Daniel and Vish bring to every dish and every experience they create. Their menu is a celebration of Sri Lanka’s rich culinary heritage, from the fiery tang of sambols to the comforting richness of coconut milk curries. Each dish reflects Daniel’s mastery of traditional recipes blended with his innovative touch, alongside Vish’s love for creating food that feels like home.
The Kandy Esala Perahera features a Ceremonial Tusker carrying the Scared Tooth Relic. An honour bestowed upon only a few Sri Lankan elephants.
Where every dish is crafted with love, every meal tells a story, and every visit creates a memory!
Kottu roti
00AU$